JUST IN: Nnamdi Kanu Challenges Court Jurisdiction as Justice Nyako Adjourns Case Indefinitely

Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), raised concerns about the jurisdiction of his terrorism trial during a hearing on Monday, February 10, 2025, before Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court. Kanu, who has been in detention since his arrest in June 2021, questioned why his case was still being heard by Justice Nyako, despite her earlier recusal from the trial. He argued that the court, under her authority, had no jurisdiction over him and expressed dissatisfaction with the decision of the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, to return the case to Nyako.

Kanu’s trial had been on hold after he requested that Justice Nyako step down, citing a lack of confidence in her ability to preside over the case. However, in September 2024, following Kanu’s oral application for recusal, the judge had stepped down, but the Chief Judge later referred the case back to her, stating that Kanu’s request needed to be formalized through a motion. In December 2024, prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, formally requested that the trial proceed, while Kanu’s defense counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, objected, arguing that the recusal stood valid and calling for the case to be moved to a different court.

At Monday’s hearing, Kanu remained firm in his stance that Justice Nyako should not oversee his case, accusing her of bias and claiming that her actions were a reflection of the poor understanding of legal procedures in Nigeria. The prosecution, however, expressed readiness to proceed with the trial, asserting that their witnesses were prepared. In response to Kanu’s objections, the prosecution also asked for a firm hearing date, criticizing his remarks as disrespectful.

Despite the tension in the courtroom, Justice Nyako adjourned the case indefinitely, requesting that Kanu’s defense team submit a formal written application if they continued to insist on her recusal. The legal battle continues with no clear resolution in sight.